Winter is Coming: A look at next season’s trends

The winter collections have been down the runway; rejoice new things to inspire our wardrobes! Oh wait, I spend most of my year in the hot and humid climes of Singapore!

Huge oversized polo necks or sweaters with the sleeves so long they cover half your hand (yes this really was a thing) do not translate here. If you, like me, don’t want to just dip your toe into the trends , but want to freshen up your whole wardrobe then read on as I talk you through which trends to embrace in good old Singers.

Suiting
Suiting and tailoring always makes an appearance for winter, think oversized and slouchy (great in the heat) but still purposefully feminine. Make the most of those wide legged trousers you already have and pair with a tailored blouse. Keep fabrics soft and fluid to counteract the masculine feel. Oversize sleeveless jackets and coats were also shown, try a pinstripe or a brightly coloured one, as at Dior.Seasonal tip: try a rounded shoulder for added slouch appeal.

Left to Right: Dior, Philip Lim, Victoria Beckham

Sweater dressing
Long lean knits were all over the runway creating a sleek silhouette. Initially knits are a no-no due to the humidity but the sleek profile is not. A long narrow skirt or trousers and stream-lined tunic top will give you an instant additional look. Pick a fabric such as a light knitted cotton to add texture. Try a head to toe neutral colour to give that chic minimalist feel for any time of year.

Left to Right: Céline, The Row, Stella McCartney

60s
Minis, fit and flare skirts plus the famous A-line shift dress are all back with a bang. Try a shift dress with a bold pattern (as at Alexander Wang) for an urban take on the shape. Knee high boots are also in full force; glittery ones at Saint Laurent no less. Revive your sparkly flats with your shift for a fun update instead of boots.

Left to Right: Alexander Want, Valentino, YSL

An easy way to modernise the 60s silhouette is to wear separates, a loose style top over your mini to get that “shift” effect as seen at Miu Miu. Gucci showed a more retro feel in leather, a fit and flare skirt above the knee and blouse plus knee high boots. Feminine but not overly girly.

Left to Right: Miu Miu, Gucci, Louis Vuitton

ColourBursts of vibrant colour featured heavily in the collections (orange fur muffs against neutrals at Celine and brightly coloured coats against dark suiting at Dior.) These colours give relief from the more sombre, traditional winter hues – not so relevant for our sunny backdrop. Brights always work well in the sunshine and for many are already part of the everyday wardrobe. To refresh for winter, add: Grey and cobalt blue to your repertoire.
Grey and cobalt blue always looks chic – start with a favourite piece and then try using the colour head to toe to update it. To go all the way for the trend try tone on tone grey in different textures. Mix a silk with a linen for example. Keep your separates sharp rather than very casual to capture the look.

Left to Right: Christian Dior, TODS, Michael Kors, Valentino

Leopard print was featured again in the collections; try a grey version head to toe for a twist on this favourite.

Left to Right: Céline, Carven, Céline

Cobalt blue appeared in various guises and texture was used to give a “sporty” feel.

Left to Right: Balenciaga, Reed Krakoff

Metallics move forward from summer to favour silver with a shimmer and reflective quality – Chanel showed holographic trainers. A loud trend but one that looks great day and night.

Left to Right: Balenciaga, Chanel, YSL

PRINTS

Kaleidoscope
Know that effect on your eye when you’re unsure where to focus? This is where the runway took prints this season. Think a geometric fuelled party on the eye. Unexpected pairings of prints, a geometric with a flower print or stripe; two of the same prints in different colours or three prints together. Or try a geo print from head to toe.Seasonal Tip: try a ladylike dress in a bold print with a belt for that Bohemian luxe feel. If you add another layer like a cardigan then put the belt over the top.

A Fashion Fairy tale – Embellishments
Hoods and capes were featured heavily, many in striking colours and beautiful embellishments which set a dramatic fairy tale backdrop. It was the embellishment however, that was the real standout. From embroidery at Mary Katrantzou to gob-stopper sized jewels on dresses at Céline, it’s an easy and fun way to update your wardrobe.